Furnish Your Home in Style Even on a Tight Budget

Tough economic times mean making better dollar decisions when decorating your home. But you do not need to sacrifice style and substance. Four very simple words mean that you can get all the style you want without breaking the bank: Recycle, Recombine, Re-cover, and Rethink. These simple ideas can make a huge difference in having a look you love at a price you can afford.

Recycle what you already have. The first step in creating a new design for a room or your home is to inventory what you already own. If you are using a decorator insist that this is where you want to start the process. Be cautious that the decorator wants to sell you new pieces. Often they get commission from furniture dealers and will resist using pieces you already have. If they are reluctant, find a decorator who will work within your limits. Check your attic. It is amazing what you might find. Some of the most beautiful lamps and accessory tables, thought to be out of style and beyond use are just waiting for a new shade or a new finish. Your parents, siblings, and friends might also have great finds as well. Once you have plumbed the depths of what you already have, check yard sales in high-end neighborhoods, consignment shops, etc. to find additional pieces. Once when I was looking for lawn furniture, I found the same four chairs and the table I was considering at the big box store at a yard sale. They were asking $50 for the set (It was $399.00 at the store) and I purchased it for $30. I purchased new pads for $10 each and saved $330. While you are not always able to find exactly what you want, being versatile means you can get great design for a fraction of the cost.

Recombine existing pieces in a new way. Why do we think that just because our furniture has been grouped in the same way that it must always stay that way? People have great chairs hidden away in bedrooms that with a little TLC can be moved elsewhere to create inviting conversation areas and reading niches. Think outside the box. Carefully come up with your design plan and then make a list of your pieces to see what will recombine in ways that will refresh and enliven new living spaces.

Re-cover old pieces with new, exciting fabrics. The potential in this area is unlimited. Wonderful new fabrics can bring to life furniture you thought was beyond help. Once you decide your color palette make a visit to your local fabrics shop and find designs and colors that will work. Some pieces you might be able to re-cover yourself. Others you might need the services of upholsterer. Considering your professional skills, why not offer to trade services. Your upholsterer does your work at a reduced or free rate and you trade your services for him.

Most homes have too many pieces of furniture already. Removing some and using them in other places will make overstuffed rooms seem larger as well.

Rethink your design concept to incorporate new and refreshing ideas. Consider using more neutral colors and designs which can be refreshed by adding new accessories, which are much cheaper. For instance, why not employ neutral window treatments, and then dress up the valance, which can later be changed with less expense. Concentrate your redesign first on critical areas such as the great room and master bedroom, which tend to reflect on the entire house. If the budget it tight, you can get more bang for your buck with these two rooms, and the new look will refresh the rest of the house.

Consider reframing old art, or using enlarged photographs from family albums. Nothing says warm and cozy like great memories of past trips or family events. It is a great idea to decorate with things you enjoy looking at.

These simple ideas are a wonderful way to get started on furnishing your home in style even when on a tight budget. The rule is to not settle for cheap pieces just to get by. Look for great quality, but look beyond present conditions for furniture that can be easily refreshed, refurbished, and made new again. Furniture with a history adds much to the ambiance of any room. Get started on your treasure hunt today and you might be amazed at what you find.